Comfort food doesn’t get any better than this Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter. This hearty dinner brings together tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce—all made in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something cozy, this dish hits the spot every single time.

What makes this one-pot meal shine is the balance of bold flavors and ease of preparation. It’s a weeknight winner that feels like a weekend indulgence, thanks to the garlicky butter base and velvety sauce that clings to every bite. Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pasta varieties like rotini, penne, or shells work best here since they hold onto the sauce and cook evenly in one pot. If you’re using a different type, just adjust the liquid slightly and keep an eye on cook time to prevent overcooking.

Ingredients for the Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
8 oz rotini pasta (uncooked)
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter 2

How To Make the Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Infuse the Garlic Butter Flavor

Add the butter to the skillet with the beef. Once melted, stir in the garlic, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir in the uncooked pasta and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Cheeses

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

How to Serve and Store Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta

This pasta is best served piping hot, straight from the pot, with extra Parmesan on top and a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad. Leftovers? They reheat beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if the sauce thickens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles all work well in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

Is this freezer-friendly?

While it can be frozen, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. If freezing, undercook the pasta a bit and reheat with added cream.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely. Just monitor the cook time and add extra liquid if needed, as gluten-free pasta can absorb more moisture.

What vegetables can I add?

Spinach, peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be delicious additions stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.

Want More One-Pot Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta, here are some other comforting dishes to try:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it on busy nights.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a veggie add-in? How about a spicy twist?

I love seeing your kitchen creativity. Snap a pic and tag me—I’m always sharing reader recreations and tips on Pinterest @NinaDishes.

Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy One-Pot Beef Pasta with Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food—made in one pot for easy cleanup and loaded with flavor from rich garlic butter, tender ground beef, and a velvety cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in garlic, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Pour in beef broth and milk. Stir in uncooked pasta and bring to a gentle boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Once pasta is al dente, reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.

5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.